WOMEN from Papua New Guinea and other Pacific island nations are eligible to enter the Minerals Council of Australia’s scholarship program for the company director’s course if they are currently working on a mine site within Australia.

Last week the MCA said that it was partnering with BHP Billiton and Downer to support talented women "to take the next step in their careers", adding that the course would be completed at the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD).

"This initiative aims to increase women's participation on company boards within the minerals industry," the MCA said.

"The AICD course equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a company director role. Now in its fifth year, the program has funded 15 women to complete the company directors course so far," the MCA said.

Applications are now open for four scholarships.

To be eligible, applicants must be Australian-based and be nominated by an MCA member or associate member company.

Applications close at 5pm on Friday, July 14.

For further information, contact Jillian D'Urso, wbo is the policy research officer for MCA at +613 8614 1851 or ​check out other scholarships on : Scholarships Awards Website